Do Horses Benefit from Herbal Feeding?

One great way to help boost your horse's health is by feeding herbs. Herbs can help with coat condition, hoof condition, pain, inflammation, boost the immune system, improve digestion, and so much more.

Herbs are one way to help reconnect your horse with nature. In the wild a horse would naturally graze on the herbs growing in their environment to treat themselves for whatever ailments they may have. Confined to stalls or pastures with just grass, we've taken this option away from them.

It is important to remember that while some herbs can help immediately, generally herbs are not fast acting. It can often take three months for the full effects of the herbs to make a difference. If you are using an already prepared mix, follow its directions. If you are using individual herbs, research or ask a professional on dosages and on length of use. Some herbs such as garlic and Echinacea work best when fed on a rotational schedule of three weeks on and one week off.

The easiest way to feed herbs to horses is buying a mix produced by a company such as Hilton Herbs and feeding it as directions indicate. This is the most convenient way to feed herbs, especially if you board your horse or have limited time to spend on feeding.

You can also buy herbs in bulk from a supplier such as Mountain Rose Herbs. Make sure that the herbs are organic or wild harvested. It doesn't help to feed herbs that are covered in pesticides or other chemicals. If you decide to buy the herbs in bulk you can feed herbs individually or create your own mixes.

Whether using an already prepared mix, an individual herb, or a mix you made yourself, a way to administer them other than dry is to make a tea or decoction with them. If the herbs are leaves or flowers, then make a tea. Simply pour hot water over the herbs, cover, and let sit for 5 to 20 minutes. This can then be poured over their hay, grain, or added to bran to make a bran mash. A decoction is similar to a tea, but used when the herb is in the form of the root. Simmer these types of herbs in water for 20 to 30 minutes then let them further steep for another 15 minutes. Add to feed same as the tea.

If you have your horse at home and have pasture, you can add herbs to edges of your pasture. Though if you have rabbits, the horses may not get much of the herbs! Herbs such a chamomile or peppermint can make a great addition to your pasture. I do not recommend adding herbs to your pasture if you have pregnant mare(s).

If you compete with your horse, always check the rule books or with the ruling organization for lists of banned substances as some herbs are included on these lists. Any herbs with a calming effect such as valerian are often on the ban list. Other herbs such as white willow bark can test positive on drug tests as one of its main properties is salicylic acid, the main ingredient of aspirin.

If you wish to feed herbs to pregnant mares, consult with a professional for advice. Also consult with your veterinarian before starting your horse on herbs if your horse has other health problems.